A major change goes into effect for air travel and federal building access, starting May 7.
After years of delays and reminders, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID Act is rolling out nationwide. The initial REAL ID deadline was in 2020, but it was ultimately pushed back due to the widespread effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For those planning to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities, the standard driver’s license may no longer be the acceptable identification. However, there are a few stipulations as to why this may not entirely be the case for everyone in all states.
While getting a REAL ID isn’t hard, applicants will need to plan accordingly. Here’s everything travelers will need to know about what the REAL ID is, who needs one, how it’s different from what’s already in your wallet, and what could happen if you don’t have it.
What Is the REAL ID and Why Was It Created?
The REAL ID is a form of identification that meets higher security standards set by the federal government. Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, enacting a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission that “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.”
The Act prohibits federal agencies, including the TSA, from accepting state-issued driver’s licenses or identification cards that do not meet those minimum standards for accessing federal facilities, such as courthouses, nuclear power plants and military bases, and boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.
A REAL ID looks similar to a regular driver’s license. However, a major difference will be the star that appears on the upper right corner. That star symbolizes the identification card is REAL ID-compliant.
Who Needs a REAL ID?
Most U.S. adults will need a REAL ID if they plan to fly domestically or to visit federal facilities that require identification. Children under 18 won’t need one if they’re flying with a companion who has acceptable ID.
Travelers who rely on a driver’s license for air travel and don’t have another federally accepted ID (like a passport or military ID) will require a REAL ID.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.
How Do You Get a REAL ID and What Documents Are Required?
Unlike standard licenses issued by states, REAL IDs require stricter documentation to obtain. That means your identity, residency and legal presence in the U.S. have all been verified with federal standards in mind.
To get a REAL ID, applicants will need to visit their local DMV in person — applying online is not available at this time. Applicants are encouraged to double-check their state’s DMV website to guarantee they have the proper paperwork, as specific requirements may be requested on a state level. Generally speaking, applicants will need to bring:
- One proof of identity (like a U.S. birth certificate or passport)
- One proof of Social Security number (like a Social Security card or W-2)
- Two proofs of state residency (like a utility bill or rental agreement)
- Proof of name change (if your current name is different from your birth certificate or ID, such as a marriage license or court order)
Applicants will need to bring originals or certified copies of all documentation — photocopies will not be accepted.
What States Don’t Require the REAL ID?
Residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington have more flexibility with the REAL ID requirement than other states. These states offer options beyond the standard REAL ID, including Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) and Enhanced IDs (EIDs), which double as proof of citizenship and work for travel to places like Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, by both land and sea.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID?
Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints on or after May 7, 2025, and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, and may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening. The same goes for federal buildings that require identification.
While a REAL ID isn’t mandatory for everyone, it’s essential for anyone who plans to fly or access secure federal sites.
For more information, visit the official website of the Department of Homeland Security.
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